Emily Ford sets out with Diggins, a borrowed Alaskan Husky sled dog, to become the first woman and person of color to thru-hike the 1,200-mile Ice Age Trail in winter. As the 69-day journey through subzero temperatures tests her physical and mental endurance, Emily and her canine protector develop an unbreakable bond as they embrace the unexpected kindness of strangers and discover they’ve become figureheads in the movement to make the outdoors more accessible for everyone. What begins as an extraordinary physical and mental challenge also becomes a spiritual adventure.

Breaking Trail

2021 US 30 min
Festival Year:
Director: Jesse Roesler
Types: Documentary, Short
Topic: Adventure, Environmental Advocacy and Justice